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this schools is well rounded and my child benefitted greatly. The instructors were very professional and my son came home a very happy child most days. They instilled great values into my son.

- submitted by a parent

June 08, 2015

There are good and bad things about the school, but in my opinion it is largely overrated. I think the only good staff at the school are the principal and the science teacher. Both are impressive and exceptional. Nothing else about the school is notable. There are a lot of BAD teachers at the school who seem to run the show. The school year is predicated by the teacher and can be miserable. One child had abysmal teachers. Each year my child spent all day in a boring class getting screamed at by mean, uninteresting teachers who should have retired ten or 20 years ago. My older child is moving on to a highly gifted magnet, but not without totally turning off to school in the elementary years first. My child was not only not challenged whatsoever all the way through school, but was put into special ed at carpenter for a stretch, which was a joke. The second grade teacher even told me my child must be autistic because she had a hard time teaching to my kid because my child finished work so fast and seemed bored. The next year my child was identified as highly gifted. They have no resources whatsoever for anything that is outside the bell curve. They are incapable of challenging bright children with work that is not rote and the typical worksheet stuff. There is nothing outside the box going on here. They only seem to teach to the standardized tests. My other child had better teachers, but was bullied all of the way through. My main gripe though is the school is SO overcrowded the kids are packed in like sardines. They can't run at recess and lunch because there's not enough staff watching them. Both my kids have had serious issues with other kids and bullying at the school mainly during recess and lunch and in the star after school program. Some notable memories are one of my kids being chased around by a kid with scissors. Another time my other child was threatened by a child who was wielding a hammer around after school--also in the star after school program. There's so many people everywhere it's hard to breathe just walking the kids into school in the morning. It seems like there are so many people there they can't all be living in studio city because one doesn't see as many children out and about in studio city as at the school. My older child had 40 kids in class in fifth grade.

- submitted by a parent

May 05, 2015

Both my boys attended Carpenter. They graduated and left feeling well prepared for Jr High. Carpenter has great teachers and there is tons of involvement from your parents, which make the school so much more pleasant to visit. Ms. Parseghian and Mr Lapittus stood out for us as both my boys had these teachers in 4th and 5th grade. They really prepare these kids and check them when they need to be checked. They hold them accountable for what they are learning and make it stick. I moved to this area just so that I could bring my boys here. It was the best decision as they have solid friends with solid parents with a solid community of involvement.

- submitted by a parent

October 02, 2014

There once was a man that entered a village and asked the mayor what the people were like. The mayor asked the man about his experience in the last village "they were wonderful, kind people" the mayor then said you will find the same people in this village. Another man approached and asked the same question to the mayor and the mayor asked the man about his experience in the last village "they were rude and unfriendly" the mayor then said you will find the same people in this village. That "dirty play yard" and grass area is a haven for kids to run around and work out indifferences, issues with their friends or just dig in the dirt for bugs. Get involved and then make the right choice for your child. Leave the negative energy out the door. Good Luck.

- submitted by a parent

September 28, 2014

We have two kids at Carpenter. We contemplated the private schools and then found that Carpenter is just as good. The principal is passionate and committed and it all trickles down to the faculty. I like that the parent body is very involved. There is a strong sense of community. Most importantly, my kids are learning and thriving and have a sense of safety and community.

- submitted by a parent

September 28, 2014

Not the school for a child who needs any amount of special attention. They make it clear that they would rather have your leave them to give you the support you need and deserve. It's sad that a public school chooses to run off the kids who are not perfect, my tax dollars are wasted since I have to hire all kinds of support that the school won't provide unless we sue the district.

- submitted by a parent

September 02, 2014

not to mention how hostile parents can be as per the typical rude response to an opinion which every parent is entitled too. its time for a real administrator and a real music teacher who by the way should not be able to run an after school program on campus and charge for it. if you speak the truth here or air dirty laundry you get criticised.

- submitted by a parent

September 01, 2014

If you are unhappy with the school and our principal, you can do one of two things: 1) Get involved with the innumerable groups/committees that exist in order for you to build the school that you want for your child or, 2) Leave There are many public and private schools nearby that would be more than happy to enroll your child. Instead of being negative, find a place where you'll be happy. Yay!

- submitted by a parent

September 01, 2014

Families that do not like this school need to do one of two things: 1) Get involved and be a part of making the school what you'd like for your child or 2) Leave We're overcrowded as it is. If you are not happy, then go. There are plenty of public and private schools nearby that would gladly enroll you. This school community works very hard for ALL students including yours, and we really only want to be surrounded by people that are positive. Yay!

- submitted by a parent

January 30, 2014

I don't get the hype about this school. What a mess! The campus is filthy, the facility way overcrowded and there is a pathetic green space that they call a "play yard." Drop off and pick up are a logistical nightmare with all the traffic on Laurel Canyon. It really doesn't live up to the hype, sorry.

- submitted by a community member

November 17, 2013

We came from England in 2011 and our daughter went into 3rd Grade. A shock to our system in every way! She had previously attended a tiny school in a leafy village town in Surrey. She was made to feel totally welcome and special. The teachers were excellent and although the class sizes are big, she never slipped through the cracks. She had trouble keeping on top of the work but now in 5th Grade she is really enjoying it. Mr Brietstein is an amazing teacher, the right balance in everything. We are going to be sad to move on at the end of this year as it really is a tough act to follow! The Principal Mr.Martinez is incredible and should defo run for president..: )

- submitted by a parent

October 19, 2013

Carpenter is an amazing learning environment! Both of our children attended the school and we are sad that this will our last year at Carpenter. You couldn't ask for a better community school. The kids are intelligent, ready and eager to learn. The parents are incredibly involved, we volunteer, we help supplement whatever supplies are needed and not provided by the District. The teachers and principal want every child to reach their full potential. My only complaint is that the school doesn't go all the way to 12th grade.

- submitted by a parent

September 26, 2013

My daughter has been at Carpenter for 2 months and the school has been wonderful and administrative staff have worked with us to help make sure my daughter is receiving all the support she needs in school. I communicate daily with her teacher and my daughter is doing amazing. Wonderful school, good enrichment programs.

- submitted by a parent

September 02, 2013

I am in love with this school! Everything about carpenter is great from the staff to the teachers!! This is by far the best, best elementary school in the valley!! Trust me, from one parent to another your child will LOVE this school!!

- submitted by a parent

June 23, 2013

It is a reat school all around. My daughter excelled there and was very happy. She loved 5th Grade!

- submitted by a parent

May 25, 2013

Very Student focused. Children are highly encouraged. Teachers are committed and the Principal is like no other!!

- submitted by a parent

October 09, 2012

The best of the best. A sense of real community and quality education. Great staff, great teachers and involved parents.

- submitted by a parent

September 23, 2012

we are new to the school and have a new teacher and our needs are not being met. Further up the school our daughter is with an 'old hand' and her needs are being excellently met. As with all schools it's about the teachers - their example from the principal is amazing though, what an inspirational leader...

- submitted by a parent

September 02, 2012

Carpenter Ave is great school for students and parents, but not so much for special education itinerant staff. In fact, the entire group left at the end of the school year two years ago. Pros- great parent support so kids come to school ready to learn, good principal, supplimental programs paid for by parent organization which the Charter makes possible, and good instruction. Cons - a handfull of parents who hire lawyers to harass staff into giving them what they want as opposed to what the child needs. This is VERY expensive for the tax-payer (you and me) and not good for the kids. It also means that special ed services will be provided by new staff each year.

- submitted by a teacher

August 12, 2012

Lives up to it's reputation! This is a truly excellent school, with lots of personal attention and a strong connection to the neighborhood. My daughter attended K-6 and we still miss it. There was some variation in the quality of the teachers but the overall quality was very good -- Sanchez, Colbert, Jung were among the standouts. Mr Martenez, the principal, is a terrific leader.

- submitted by a parent

December 28, 2011

In response to the previous review, our daughter went K-6 at this school and we always felt she was in safe environment. She's at a private school now and their check-in policy is exactly the same as at Carpenter. I've visited other schools with friends whose kids go to them and at no elementary school, public or private, has anyone ever checked my ID. Maybe it's a high school thing.

- submitted by a parent

November 29, 2011

Carpenter is a wonderful school that fosters a love of learning in the children and a great sense of community for the families. Mr. Martinez, the principal, is incredibly caring and committed to the students. The amazing and very active parent body fund a superb enrichment program. I only wish that Carpenter went up to 12th grade! This is a phenomenal school! We are very happy to be here.

- submitted by a parent

June 21, 2011

Top notch public school. Involved parents who volunteer time and money and Mr. Martinez is a terrific principal. Most of the teachers at Carpenter are dedicated to their profession and love the kids which makes it feel like a small community that is a pleasure to attend. My son had a wonderful kindergarten year and especially loved all the enrichment classes, including science and music made possible by PFC. Get involved with the school if you are lucky enough to attend this gem.

- submitted by a parent

June 20, 2011

I am very proud to be associated with Carpenter Community Charter; it has far exceeded my expectations. My daugter loves school thanks to the kind, loving and supporting staff. Her Kindergarten teacher was the best and has truly prepared my child to enter the real world of elementary school; she was tough and loving! She provided the structure and guidance K'ers need to enter the fast pace world of 1st grade and beyond. The Principal is the best! He truly cares for the kids and is the school's #1 advocate! Parent involvement fantastic and makes this school a joy to attend.

- submitted by a parent

May 03, 2011

I would like to express my satisfaction about the school and its good manager and staff. Hope see the carpenter school's rate up and uper.

- submitted by a parent

March 31, 2011

Principal Martinez is a breath of fresh air and an excellent manager. His processes for managing communications (twitter, autodialer) makes it easy for busy parents to stay informed. He also has infectious enthusiasm and is a great ambassador for the school. We are very lucky to have him. Our teacher experiences have been mostly fantastic--many were wonderful, outstanding and the best out there, but our child's current teacher is clearly distracted and occasionally just mean. Our counsel has been to turn this into an opportunity to work well even with those that are difficult partners. We don't see this as negatively impacting the curriculum or education--just as an unpleasant social reality this year. Parent involvement is exceptionally high, and we are very lucky at the school to have such a generous parent community. In these years of deep cuts, the parents have made a significant and real positive impact. If there is one nose-plugging negative about the school, though, it is certainly the horrible women running the front office, who are day in and day out as rude and cantankerous as they come; any interaction with them is bound to sour even a wonderful day.

- submitted by a parent

March 22, 2011

Great principal- the best I've ever encountered. A very good group of teachers and staff.

- submitted by a parent

no rating
October 12, 2010

The principal, Joe Martinez is phenomenal! Parents are expected to participate which makes it much better for the children and parents and teachers.

- submitted by a parent

no rating
October 12, 2010

It is truly a community school. Local businesses, government and residents consider it an asset to the community. It is widely viewed as "The public private school" for the amount of extra programs that are made available.

- submitted by a parent

no rating
October 09, 2010

Carpenter has a wonderful community spirit and really cares about its students. We rely on these fundraisers to provide the activities that wouldn't be otherwise provided. (i.e. Physical Education/ Music). Tell your friends and VOTE!!!A great place to educate your K-5 child!

- submitted by a parent

no rating
October 09, 2010

My 2 grandchildren attend Carpenter and I have had the pleasure of visiting their classrooms, meeting their teachers and the principal. The spirit that I see their is beyond anything I have ever seen. They really show they care for the students.

- submitted by a community member

no rating
May 13, 2010

a wonderful school and a wonderful community of parents, teachers and staff.l

- submitted by a parent

no rating
April 24, 2010

This is a wonderful school with LOTS of parent involvement! The kids have enrichment programs like science, dance, p.e., and computers in addition to all the math, reading and writing programs. The principal is fantastic as well!

Great reputation...not a great school! Way too many kids for the teacher ratio, way too much testing and way too little emphasis on the individual child.

- submitted by a parent

no rating
May 02, 2008

The school covers all the bases thanks to a very involved parent group. The money raised allows PE, music, computers science, etc. Academically, the school is solid, but if you have a very bright child there isn't a lot of extra attention given to push that child. However, if your child is struggling there are resources. It feels a little crowded, though the parents are so involved it's not tough to meet people. Overall it's a good elementary school, my kids are happy there. It is well run for such a large community.

We are so fortunate to have an elementary school like Carpenter in our community. Our children are getting a well rounded education. Academics, art, music, physical education, and a strong and loving staff. Test scores speak for themselves. It all starts from the top. Our principal is truly hands on. Her relationship with both parents and staff are fair and well balanced. She addresses any needs right away. She has created a safe and fun environment, my kids love going to school each and every day!

- submitted by a parent

September 04, 2006

My boys are 20 and 25; they both attended Carpenter, older one in Highly Gifted Program grades 1-6 went on to graduate from UC Berkeley; younger son in regular school grades 1-5; now transferring from SMC to UCLA! All of us loved the experience. 99% terrific teachers and principal (back then anyway). Parent involvement above and beyond. Bused in kids w/non-English speaking parents attended Open Houses - very impressive. Wonderful memories we will all cherish! Younger son moved to a private school (grades 7-8); no comparison! Switched back to NHHS (most Advanced Placement courses of any schools). Best public schools in the Valley!

- submitted by a parent

August 21, 2006

This is a great school! I attended as a child, my two children attended recently and I was thrilled with the high level of academic excellence expected. The classes were small in the lower grades, but way too high in the upper! The extra classes like P.E., Music, Media Lab and art projects were outstanding. The teachers are so kind, qualified and dedicated. My children excelled at Carpenter and went on to very regarded Magnet programs in middle school. It was a true community experience for us. I think it is how much time and effort you are willing to give to the school community and your children.

- submitted by a parent

August 17, 2006

Carpenter is not worthy of it's reputation! The school is bursting with 7 classes per grade level (K-3). After all it is a public school, they all have to follow CA school standards and guidelines so they all teach the same thing. I'd go for a smaller school and hope for a good teacher if I were you.

- submitted by a parent

June 23, 2006

Former teacher here: As public schools go, this one is pretty good. I'm personally more inclined to teach at private schools, but they are no panacea unto themselves if the leadership at the top is weak. Being a Principal at Carpenter must be like having two full-time jobs. I do think she's very capable and personable but there's beuracratic ridgedness that is evident. I think it stems from the behometh public school curriculum which is extremely antiquated, imo, for it's bogged down in intellectualism and methodology and not rooted on basic levels of human understanding. This makes for a teaching staff that emphasizes following rules and not much else. Many rules only exist to be followed, many of them are counterintuitive and that's how over time you lose alot of these kids by the time they get to high school. There's more to education than being a facilitating automaton.

- submitted by a teacher

June 20, 2006

I student-taught at this school. I have also subbed in a couple districts, and this one stands out. Carpenter is an extremely good school that promotes academic growth. The staff is personable, for the most part (at least the people that I worked with), which is always positive for the students.

- submitted by a teacher

June 13, 2006

My daughter attended Carpenter school for 3 years (2 grade - 5 grade). She loved this school a lot. Great kids, very active parents who participate in the school's life. On the negative side: school is very big. Too many kids are running around.

- submitted by a parent

June 12, 2006

The academics, the classtime enrichment activities (music, phys ed, computer), and the quality of many of the teachers, are exceptional among LAUSD schools. It is still a public school, however, with all of the attendant difficulties of large class-sizes in the upper grades, overemphasis on mandated district testing, and the difficulties of getting the teachers' union to support quality teaching in its membership.

- submitted by a parent

June 09, 2006

This school is almost run by the parents. Accordingly, it is good school

- submitted by a parent

June 08, 2006

Carpenter is an amazing LAUSD public school. The students thrive in a environment that is safe, enriching and very academic. The parent involvement makes the school what it is. They help in the classrooms, at school functions and with fundraising that provides programs the following; music, PE, art, media lab, extra aides; a pull-out program to help reduce class size in the upper grades. The principal is fairly new and completely engaged in the success of the school. The community is also very involved in being part of the school by donating over $55,000 annually. I have a 4th grader and a 2nd grader and have been completely satisfied with the education they have received thus far.

- submitted by a parent

May 09, 2006

This is a strong elementary school, and they know it. The size of the school can be intimidating despite the fact that teachers and staff try to mitigate that fact. Parent involvement is very high and they welcome new blood - just show up. The music program is superb and is structured to compliment the academic corriculum. The physical education is also strong and is not something that you see at other schools. I've had two kids go through Carpenter from K-5 and overall the experience has been good. The school's weakness has been with their principals in the last number of years.

- submitted by a parent

March 25, 2006

Academic, music, art and sports programs are very good. Also, parents are extremely involved in all aspects. We have had some problems with a couple of difficult teachers however.

- submitted by a parent

March 18, 2006

the school is large .over 800 students.lots of parent involment.the upper grades class size is quite large.find students can lose focus in the large class size.

- submitted by a parent

March 03, 2006

I have been very happy with Carpenter Ave. My son has gone through K, 1 and 2 grades. However, looking to 3rd grade I am starting to look elsewhere. In the upper grades (3-5) many of the more seasoned teachers are or have retired. And this year, the 5th grade classes have 38 kids in each classroom. That is just too big. Carpenter used to have a wonderful gifted and highly gifted program. But due to the apartment building construction in the area, the District took away the ability to allow gifted and highly gifted students into the school on permit. As a result, the school is suffering. If you have a highly gifted student, this school may not be for you. I do think the music, pe and computer classes are wonderful. But not enough to offset the class size and lack of gifted curriculum.

- submitted by a parent

January 30, 2006

Carpenter is a large but basically well-run Los Angeles Elementary school. It is strongly supported by the local community both financially and otherwise, and thus provides a variety of enrichments unavailable in most Los Angeles public schools. Its gifted programs, however, have been closed down. There is clustering available within regular classrooms.

- submitted by a parent

January 14, 2006

Carpenter is a wonderful, active school community that works hard to enrich the LAUSD funding with arts, physical ed, music and drama programs. Our only complaint is that it sometimes feels overcrowded, and overcapacity.

- submitted by a parent

December 02, 2005

Carpenter school is an excellent public school. Parent volunteerism is very high and the teachers are very dedicated. They have a rigorous academic program. Homework starts in kindergarten. Their after school care is excellent. THe YMCA program is costly but worth it. It's around$300 a month for after school care.

- submitted by a parent

October 17, 2005

quality academic teachers and programs huge parent involvement overall very happy with this school

- submitted by a parent

September 26, 2005

It does have more programs provided by the aggressive fundraising. A great community if you don't mind large public schools. Parking is terrible. Ideal school if you live south of the blvd., such as in the Dona's.

- submitted by a parent

September 12, 2005

One of the things that is often overlooked about Carpenter is the quality of the kids. They are really good and interesting kids. One can tell that most of these kids get a lot of warm and loving support at home. This also makes the school a wonderful place for my children. Also, these kids are not into fad and fashion. Lot's of clothes from Target, Children's place, Old Navy, etc. I have yet to see any fashion competetiveness at this school. Very refreshing! Carpenter Mom

- submitted by a parent

September 04, 2005

High quality academics. Wonderful music/chorus program. Art programs and after school programs also available at different times during the year. Safe environment. New Principal and new Assist. Principal.

- submitted by a parent

August 21, 2005

I have been very satisfied with the availability of the staff to help accomodate my daughter's special needs.

- submitted by a parent

no rating
August 20, 2005

This is a great school for students who are motivated and have actively involved parents. If not, there doesn't seem to be much in the way of help.

- submitted by a parent

August 19, 2005

The lower grages, k-3, with a 20/1 ratio seem to have a significantly better program than than grades 4 and 5. Having said that, my kids did reasonably well there, made a lot of friends, and have excellent memories. I don't think it is possible to run a school in LAUSD without a lot of ridiculous red tape. Oh, well.

- submitted by a teacher

August 16, 2005

My daughter had to make a huge cross country move during kindergarten. With the great teachers at carpenter, her transition was smooth and she never skipped a beat. She was reading chapter books without help and was awarded california award for excellence in math before the year was up! Coming from a small town with a small school (k-3) we really never felt like we were in a huge city. Infact, the only diffence was the laid back attitude and parents still shuffling children to class at 10 minutes past 8. However it is an early start time compared to what I am use to. Overall I enjoyed carpenter last year and I look forward to 1st grade.

- submitted by a parent

August 08, 2005

Carpenter Avenue Elementary has the feel of a small-town school but is really quite cosmopolitan due to the area. My daughter loved the school, did very well academically, and overall would undoubtedly rate it high. The parents are very involved.

- submitted by a parent

July 23, 2005

I have had 4 children in Carpenter and it is an amazing school. The entire staff is just wonderful. By far the best public school in the valley. Parent involvment is the most intense I've seen in all my years. I would recommend this schhol to everyone.

- submitted by a parent

July 19, 2005

If you're looking for a school with a strong HG program, look elsewhere. The challenges associated with a gifted child are hard enough without having to deal with a confusing and cold administration.

- submitted by a parent

May 13, 2005

we have been at this school for 5 years and have been extremely happy. although a large school there is a sense of community, parent involvement is very high and great programs are paid for by money raised by the parent body - music, p.e., media lab. there's a great library also. teachers for the most part are caring and we have not had a bad year yet. The kids at this school are happy and for the most part seem to love school and enjoy learning. lots of assemblies on different topics, a great track meet run by the coach, great after school sports programs. we love it and will send our next two children too. just wish it went through 6th grade.

- submitted by a parent

March 31, 2005

New principal just started on March 28. School is academically very good. As in any school, parents have to be proactive in child's education - review homework, help with problem areas and communicate with teachers. Attend LEARN council meetings to be up to speed on school. In the past, fund raising organization's parents have been very pushy in class placement for their children. Hopefully this will be toned down. Overall, excellent education if you stay involved with your child and supplement math and language arts if needed for your child.

- submitted by a parent

March 25, 2005

Quality of academic programs. Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities. Level of parent involvement is excellent.

- submitted by a parent

March 11, 2005

Wonderful public school! Lots of great teachers and school spirit here. Helps if parents are very involved.

- submitted by a parent

March 10, 2005

Carpenter is a great school overall. Parent involvement is strong, the teachers and test scores are great, and the fact that full-time art, music and physical education exists in this troubled school district says a lot. Smart, talented kids will definitely thrive at Carpenter. However, if you have a gifted or highly gifted child, I would advise you to keep looking before selecting Carpenter. The school supposedly has a gifted program, but no one can tell me much about it. Meetings about the gifted program are lengthy, chaotic and go nowhere. After trying my best to find the best place for my child academically, I am ready to leave this school.

- submitted by a parent

March 10, 2005

My stepson has attended Carpenter from kindergarten through second grade. We are happy with the school overall, but do wish our child was challenged more academically. The school has a lot of parent involvement and everyone is committed to building a better school.

- submitted by a parent

no rating
March 10, 2005

I am in the 2nd grade at carpenter and love carpenter. I went to kindergarten at Carpenter and am happy to be going into third grade. I like the art and the library. I like the mac computers in media lab because that is what I have at home. Your kid will like, no love Carpenter school.

- submitted by a student

March 10, 2005

Lots of parental involvement. Very protected environment. Quite good extracurricular activities. Getting a new principal, so in transition right now.

- submitted by a parent

February 02, 2005

Great academics. Anderson enrichment program after school is great - my daughter gets mad if i pick her up early.

- submitted by a parent

January 25, 2005

I was told that this school was a very good school, therefore I relocated to this district but I was disappointed by the teaching staff.

- submitted by a parent

November 29, 2004

Two of my children have gone to this wonderful school from kindergarten through 5th grade. Although there are too many students per class- a product of the school district, not the school- I certainly hope our third child will attend Carpenter as well. Parent involvement is as strong as it gets, so be warned or be involved. Scores are consistantly high but there has been a larger than usual teacher-turnover of late, by my own estimation. If you do not live in the Carpenter 'district' you may still be able to enroll your child, depending on the number of students in any particular year. Call the school for 'Open Enrollment' information.

- submitted by a parent

November 29, 2004

Carpenter is known in LAUSD as the public school that thinks its a private school. The parent involvement is unbelievable. Four years ago we received a new principal. The retiring principal made the school what it is today. Granted, hers were big shoes to fill, I think our current principal is not measuring up. Despite that, Carpenter offers a wonderful learning environment with caring and exceptional teachers.

- submitted by a parent

November 25, 2004

This is a terrific school with dedicated teachers who think 'outside the box.' The Distinguished School Award was no accident. The music department, media lab and dance programs add depth to an excellent academic program. The parents are very involved, and Carpenter is truly a community. I would highly recommend this school to anyone.

- submitted by a parent

no rating
November 19, 2004

I live in Studio City and have an extreme admiration for Carpenter Elementary School. I do not have kids that attend this school but admire the amount of contributions and community involvement. It is nice to see this and it is great for the community.

- submitted by a parent

April 12, 2004

I attended Carpenter Ave. for five years (since 1st grade). I am now in 8th grade and I loved Carpenter. It was a safe and friendly environment. My little brother and sister both go there now and they love it. This school is very good because the teachers care about the students and want them to acomplish something.

- submitted by a student

February 03, 2004

I am a student now attending Carpenter Avenue Elementary School and I have started from not being very good at English to excelling every subject and now that I am in fifth grade I don't want to leave Carpenter because it is like my home!

- submitted by a student

January 31, 2004

I went here and my son goes here. It just keeps getting better and better. The PFC (or PTA) is incredible! Also, love all the beautification going on the last five years.

- submitted by a parent

August 11, 2003

My son has been attending Carpenter since first grade, he is now entering the fourth grade. We have had nothing but superior teachers. The proof has been in his national testing scores. Amazing!! The school recognized my son's academic potential in second grade. Carpenter has a terrific gifted program. Whenever we mention that,'our son goes to Carpenter' it almost gets the same reaction as if we had commented, 'My son attends Harvard!' I am not kidding!!!

- submitted by a parent

July 09, 2003

I have two children attending this school. I took them out of a private school because I moved into this school district and wanted to take advantage of my luck. I felt that if we weren't happy, I would just take them out again. Worst case scenerio...I had to start paying those (12K per year, per child) killer payments again. Well, I am so happy to have taken the 'risk' and now can't wait for my youngest to start the K program (a wonderful developmental program)! The teachers are amazing, I have to say, my kids haven't had a bad year yet (am I lucky, I don't know). I feel they have the right balance between acedmics and fine arts-which is very important to me. The conflict resolution program they teach is phenominal and my children now use it on me! Wonderful school that teaches to the whole child, not to the standard test scores.

- submitted by a parent

July 02, 2003

Carpenter is a great school, with great students, teachers even a great principal. It also a great faculty staff, PTA particapation and a safe and welcoming inviroment. Mrs. Grey( the principal) in my opinion is great at her job and makes sure that the qualities of Carpenter Avenue Elementary School is as great as she inteeded. The teachers are great they teach beyond the level of that grade, make it fun , give one on one attention and love to teach. They give the students incouragement and pave the path to sucess. The faculty is an organized cheerful bunch. They are very helpful . The students have different characters. Since Carpenter has no uniforms they are allowed to express themselves. That sounds bad but Mrs. Grey has a dress code. I hope you will enroll your child at Carpenter.

- submitted by a community member

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